Nissan Nismo 350Z

Nissan unveiled a new addition to the 350Z lineup, called the Nismo 350Z.

Nissan unveiled a new addition to the 350Z lineup, called the Nismo 350Z. This car looks much more radical than the stock version, thanks to a "long nose" body kit that gives the Z a Jaguaresque demeanor. A pronounced front spoiler lip gives the car better high-speed stability, and a large rear wing provides vital downforce to keep the rear tires from losing traction. The rear diffuser looks like something from a science fiction movie, with reaction from show onlookers split down the middle: Some liked the racy nature of it while others said it made the entire car look ugly.

Advertisement - Continue Reading Below

The car features a number of suspension upgrades, including dampers made by Yamaha just for this model. The car is lower and rides more firmly than the stock Z. The handling has been improved significantly, with better turn-in response and more neutrality during mid-turn. Both slalom and skidpad numbers were improved over the stock Z.

Unfortunately, no major engine modifications were made (it gets a new exhaust system), so expect acceleration times to be about the same as the stock Z's. The car represents Nissan's effort to promote its motorsports brand, Nismo, in the U.S. And with a price tag of about $37,000, it's a definite first step in the right direction.